Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo for Bold Flavor Boost

Anna

Sharing stories, traditions, and flavors

There’s something irresistible about the crispy, caramelized edges of roasted Brussels sprouts, but when you add spicy, smoky chorizo to the mix, it becomes a whole new level of flavor magic. I first tossed these two together on a whim, hoping to liven up an ordinary side dish, and instantly fell in love with how the bold chorizo bites perfectly complemented the earthy sprouts. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or searching for a crowd-pleasing holiday dish, this Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo recipe promises simple prep with maximum taste. Trust me, once you try this combo, your Brussels sprouts will never be boring again!

Why love Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo?

Bold Flavor Boost: The spicy, smoky chorizo transforms simple Brussels sprouts into a mouthwatering dish. Crispy & Caramelized: Roasting brings out a perfect crunch with tender centers. Effortless Prep: Minimal ingredients and steps make it ideal for busy cooks. Versatile Side: Pairs beautifully with weeknight dinners or festive meals. Crowd-Pleaser: Its bold taste wins over even Brussels sprouts skeptics!

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo Ingredients

For the Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts – Choose fresh, firm sprouts for the best caramelization and texture.
Olive oil – Helps achieve crispy edges while adding a rich, fruity note.
Salt – Enhances the natural flavors and balances the chorizo’s spice.
Black pepper – Adds a subtle kick that complements the smoky chorizo flavor.

For the Chorizo Mix

Chorizo sausage – Use a spicy or mild variety depending on your heat preference; it’s the star ingredient for the bold flavor boost.
Garlic – Freshly minced for an aromatic, savory depth.
Red pepper flakes – Optional, for those who love extra heat and complexity.

Optional Garnishes

Parmesan cheese – A sprinkle adds a salty richness that melts beautifully over warm sprouts.
Fresh parsley – Brightens the dish with a burst of herbal freshness.

How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C), ensuring a hot environment for crisp, caramelized edges on the Brussels sprouts and melting chorizo fats.
Prepare sprouts: Trim stems and halve firm, green Brussels sprouts, then toss in olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated with sheen.
Roast sprouts: Spread sprouts cut-side down on a baking sheet in a single layer; roast for 15 minutes to develop deep caramelization, golden-brown color, and tender centers.
Cook chorizo: Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium heat; crumble in the chorizo, sautéing with garlic until browned and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Combine: Remove roasted sprouts; add chorizo mixture to the pan or baking sheet, gently toss, then return to oven for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
Serve: Transfer to a warm platter, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for salty richness and bright herbaceous contrast before digging in.

Optional: Drizzle with a squeeze of lemon juice for tangy brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo?

Imagine a table full of delicious options that perfectly complement the spicy, smoky goodness of your Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo.

Creamy Polenta: Its smooth texture provides a comforting base that balances the bold flavors of the sprouts and chorizo.
Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and buttery within, this classic side pairs beautifully, inviting everyone to dip and savor.
Roasted Chicken: The juicy tenderness of roasted chicken enhances the meal’s heartiness, making each bite satisfying alongside the earthy Brussels sprouts.
Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing option, tossed with lemon and herbs, it adds a bright contrast to the warmth of the roasted dish.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness perfectly contrasts the savory chorizo, creating a delightful symphony of flavors on the plate.
Red Wine: A full-bodied red brings depth to the meal, echoing the richness of the chorizo and complementing those crispy, caramelized edges splendidly.

Each pairing not only enhances the meal but also brings a unique texture and flavor to the table, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of culinary delight!

Make Ahead Options

These Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can wash and halve the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chorizo can be pre-cooked and refrigerated for up to 3 days; simply crumble and sauté it with garlic, then let it cool before transferring to a container. To serve, all you need to do is roast the prepared Brussels sprouts and stir in the cooked chorizo about 5 minutes before finishing the dish. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal that tastes just as fresh and vibrant as if you made it from scratch that day!

How to Store and Freeze Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy finish or microwave for a quicker option.

Freezer: If you want to freeze the dish, allow it to cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to revive that crispy texture, ensuring you enjoy your delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo again!

Avoid sogginess: When reheating, avoid using a covered dish in the microwave to prevent moisture buildup which can make your sprouts mushy.

Expert Tips for Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo

Choose fresh sprouts: Select firm, bright green Brussels sprouts to ensure crisp caramelization and avoid bitterness.
Cut side down: Roast sprouts with the cut side facing down to achieve perfectly crispy, golden edges every time.
Don’t overcrowd pan: Give sprouts enough space on the baking sheet to roast evenly instead of steaming, preserving their texture.
Crumble chorizo finely: Breaking the chorizo into small pieces lets the flavors coat the sprouts thoroughly and cook evenly.
Use moderate heat: Sauté chorizo on medium heat to release its smoky oils without burning the garlic or sausage.
Timing matters: Add chorizo to sprouts at the end to keep the sausage juicy while allowing flavors to meld beautifully in the oven.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo Variations

Feel free to mix things up and create your perfect roasted Brussels sprouts dish tailored to your taste buds!

Spicy Kick: Add fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers while roasting for extra heat that awakens the palate. The smoky chorizo combined with fiery peppers creates an irresistible flavor explosion.
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chorizo with smoked tempeh or portobello mushrooms for a savory, meatless option that still packs a punch. The tempeh adds a nutty flavor and meaty texture, perfect for plant-based eaters!
Sweet & Savory: Include maple syrup or honey drizzled over the Brussels sprouts during the last few roasting minutes for a delightful caramelization that balances the savory chorizo. This sweet twist brings an unexpected yet delightful contrast.
Herbaceous Freshness: Toss in fresh thyme or rosemary in the last few minutes of baking to infuse herbaceous notes that elevate all the flavors. These herbs bring a wonderful brightness to the dish, marrying well with the rich chorizo.
Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans just before serving to introduce a crunchy texture that complements the tender sprouts. This nutty addition gives a satisfying bite that keeps your taste buds dancing!
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in crumbled feta or goat cheese alongside the Parmesan for a creamy, tangy finish that contrasts beautifully with the crispy sprouts. The creamy cheese brings an extra layer of flavor and richness to each bite.
Citrusy Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest for a refreshing pop that brightens the dish and cuts through the richness of the chorizo. A few zesty shavings awaken the palate and add an aromatic touch.
Mediterranean Flair: Swap chorizo for sundried tomatoes and add kalamata olives for a Mediterranean-inspired twist that deepens the flavor complexity and transports you to sun-soaked shores.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best Brussels sprouts for roasting?
Look for firm, bright green Brussels sprouts without wilted leaves or dark spots. Freshness is key to achieving that perfect caramelized crunch and avoiding any bitterness.

What’s the best way to store leftover Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness, or microwave briefly if short on time.

Can I freeze Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chorizo, and how?
Absolutely! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for the best texture.

My Brussels sprouts came out soggy instead of crispy. What went wrong?
Usually, overcrowding the pan leads to steaming instead of roasting. Make sure to spread sprouts in a single layer with space between pieces. Also, roasting cut-side down helps achieve golden, crispy edges.

Is this recipe safe for pets or people with dietary restrictions?
This dish contains chorizo, which is spicy and seasoned, so it’s not suitable for pets. If you or guests have dietary restrictions like pork-free or low-sodium diets, consider substituting chorizo with a suitable sausage alternative or omit it altogether.